YOUNG goalkeeper Rene Gilmartin has signed a new 12-month contract with Walsall.

Gilmartin, who turns 21 next Saturday, will become understudy to senior keeper Clayton Ince, last season's No.2 Bertrand Bossu having been released by the club.

The Irishman intends to press Ince hard for a first-team sport during the 2008/9 campaign after admitting that, at times under Richard Money last season, and behind Bossu in the queue, he feared for his prospects at Walsall.

Now he just wants to get cracking with goalkeeping coach Eric McManus pre-season to be ready in case Ince is afflicted by injury or loss of form.

"I am very happy to sign a new contract," Gilmartin said. "Last season was a tough one, but Eric obviously sees potential in me.

"I enjoy working closely with both Eric and Clayton and can only learn from them. I want to continue improving and hopefully grab my first-team chance if and when it comes along.

"There is sure to be a chance for me somewhere along the line and it is up to me to take it." Gilmartin spent six months on loan at Hednesford Town last term, during part of which, Jimmy Mullen, now Walsall manager, was at the club.

"Jimmy is a very good coach," Gilmartin said. "He gets on well with the players and his sessions are always bright, quick and sharp. I am looking forward to working under him and making progress."